Sumter National Forest Sassafras Mountain Jeep Trail

The Sassafras Mountain Jeep Trail climbs through dense mountain laurel and rhododendron tunnels to South Carolina’s highest point at 3,560 feet. This technical route follows old logging roads and fire breaks up steep granite slopes, with the final mile requiring careful line selection around house-sized boulders and through narrow rock pinches. The summit offers 360-degree views across the Blue Ridge, with North Carolina’s peaks visible on clear days.

This is expert-level terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear. Rocky sections demand precise throttle control and spotting on the steeper pitches. Best tackled April through October when laurel blooms paint the mountainsides. No permits needed, but fuel up in Pickens — it’s a long way back down. The payoff is standing atop the Palmetto State with views that stretch to three states.